For decades, Idaho WWAMI Assistant Clinical Dean Dr. Mary Barinaga has helped shape the educational experience of Idaho WWAMI medical students. Now, her contributions are being honored with the University of Washington School of Medicine’s Family Medicine Outstanding Clerkship Award for 2024–2025.
Dr. Barinaga has played a central role in Idaho WWAMI for years, helping expand clinical training opportunities for students across the state while championing rural and community-based medical education.
The award recognizes faculty members who make a lasting impact on students during their family medicine clerkship experiences through mentorship, teaching excellence and commitment to patient-centered care.
In addition to serving as assistant clinical dean for Idaho WWAMI, Dr. Barinaga has spent years mentoring students and supporting physician workforce development efforts throughout Idaho.
“Teaching students keeps me inspired and hopeful for the future and prevents burnout during difficult times,” Dr. Barinaga said.
Through her leadership and mentorship, countless students have gained meaningful hands-on experience while learning the importance of patient-centered care in community settings.
Dr. Barinaga’s work has helped strengthen Idaho’s physician pipeline while reinforcing the WWAMI program’s longstanding mission of serving rural and underserved communities. Her recognition reflects the lasting influence physician educators can have on students as they develop both clinical skills and their approach to patient care.